On the 30th of April 2018 marks a year since this world lost a charismatic, blue eyed boy at the age of 30 years old. This boy was a son, brother and friend to many that loved him dearly. I recall the phone call like it was yesterday, telling me that my brother had passed away. I learned a lot from that day and days that followed.

One minute my brother was here and the next he was not. Life is precious. Sometimes we don’t get a chance to comfort the people we love in their last moments. Which makes me hold on a little tighter to the ones I love everyday. My brother had battled with his mental health for many years. He helped others that were struggling through his own experience and he was very open about his journey. 

Through this year as a family we have experienced our ups and downs. I still pinch myself to realise that this is our reality and that our world continues without my brother. The ironic thing is that the boy who could help us the most through this overwhelming journey, isn’t here.

The support we have had from family and friends has touch us dearly. As the anniversary of one year approaches, I want to start giving back the support that I received and make sure no one should feel alone; either for someone on their own mental health journey or families that have lost someone. Mental Health should be seen as serious as our physical health; people should feel that they do not and should not need to go through it alone. Our minds are so powerful, and can also take someone away from this world.

On the 28th of April 2018, I will be taking part along with Fraser in the Callander cycle challenge, which is a 25 miles’ bike cycle. We will be cycling to raise money for Support in Mind Scotland (Mental Health Charity), who support people with mental health and their families. This cycle will be in memory of my brother Steven Mark Isles. Although he left us that weekend, his understanding and support for people who battle Mental Health will continue on. 

Sending love and support to anyone going through their own mental health journey. 

This is the first of many fundraisers to come.

Thank you for your support!